What is a potential systemic complication of severe burns indicating sepsis?

In the context of severe burns, oliguria serves as a significant indicator of systemic complications, particularly sepsis. When extensive burns occur, there is a substantial loss of skin, which not only disrupts the integumentary system but also allows for the entry of pathogens, potentially leading to infection. The body's response to such extensive injury and infection can culminate in a systemic inflammatory response, resulting in sepsis.

As sepsis develops, renal perfusion can be compromised due to systemic hypotension and altered blood flow, which can lead to decreased urine output, known as oliguria. This reduction in urine output may signal acute kidney injury, a serious condition often associated with sepsis, and requires immediate medical intervention. Monitoring for oliguria, therefore, becomes critical in managing burn patients as it can reflect their overall clinical status and the potential progression to more severe complications related to sepsis.

In contrast, the other symptoms mentioned—hypertension, headache, and irritability—do not typically serve as direct indicators of sepsis in the setting of severe burns and may arise from different causes or conditions.